I Was Once Told I’d Never Be a CIO. Here’s How I Proved Them Wrong
Sitting in a boardroom filled with seasoned executives, a well-meaning senior leader looked me in the eye and said,
“You’re talented, but you’ll never be a CIO.”
At that moment, I had two choices:
- Accept their words as truth.
- Prove them wrong.
I chose the latter.
Breaking Through the Barriers
When I started my career in technology, I quickly realized that the path to leadership wasn’t paved for everyone. The traditional model favored a specific mold that didn’t always include people who looked, thought, or led like me.
I was told:
🚫 I needed to be more technical.
🚫 I should “stay in my lane.”
🚫 I wasn’t “executive material.”
But here’s what I learned: Leadership isn’t about fitting into a mold but breaking it.
I Focused on Strategy, Not Just Technology
Early in my career, I realized that the best CIOs aren’t just technical—they’re also business leaders.
Instead of obsessing over the latest tools and systems, I:
✅ Learned how technology drives revenue and growth.
✅ Built relationships across departments, from finance to marketing.
✅ Became the bridge between tech and business strategy.
Because a CIO isn’t just a tech expert—they’re a business enabler.
I Refused to Let Others Define My Potential
The moment someone tells you what you can’t do is the moment you decide whether to prove them right or wrong.
I committed to:
✔️ Speaking up, even when I was the only one in the room who saw things differently.
✔️ Taking on leadership roles before I had the title.
✔️ Asking “Why not me?“ instead of accepting “You can’t.”
I realized that self-belief fuels success just as much as skillset.
I Built a Leadership Brand
To be seen as a CIO, I had to act like one—before I had the title.
- I positioned myself as a strategic thinker.
- I mentored others, proving that outstanding leadership isn’t about power but impact.
- I wrote, spoke, and engaged with industry leaders, ensuring my voice was heard.
When the opportunity finally came, I wasn’t waiting for permission—I was ready.
The Lesson: Never Let Someone Else Set Your Limits
Years later, I recalled that boardroom conversation after stepping into my first CIO role.
If I had listened to them, I wouldn’t be here.
If you’ve ever been told you’re not ready, not the right fit, not enough—let me tell you this:
Someone else’s doubts don’t define your career. It’s defined by what you choose to do next.
Article written by Christine Moffett
Christine stands out as a distinguished executive and technology innovator, dedicated to fostering unity among global tech leaders. Her mission is to inspire a culture of gratitude and balance, encouraging individuals to lead lives that harmoniously blend professional achievements with personal fulfillment.
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